Tauranga

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Networking and Professional Groups

Opportunities for connecting with local professional communities and networks in Tauranga.

Sections

1. Tauranga Chamber of Commerce

  • Focus: Business networking, professional development, and advocacy for businesses of all sizes and industries.
  • Who It’s For: Entrepreneurs, small business owners, corporate professionals, and startups.
  • Key Activities:
    • Regular networking events, including Business After 5 (BA5) events.
    • Workshops and seminars on business skills, marketing, and leadership.
    • Advocacy for local businesses and economic development.
  • Membership Costs:
    • Membership fees vary depending on the size of your business. For example, small businesses may pay around NZD 300–500 annually, while larger businesses may pay more.
  • How to Join:
    • Visit their website (https://www.tauranga.org.nz/) and complete the online membership application.
    • Attend an event as a non-member to see if it’s a good fit before committing.
  • Local Considerations:
    • The Chamber is a great starting point for newcomers to Tauranga who want to establish connections in the local business community.

2. Priority One

  • Focus: Economic development and innovation in Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.
  • Who It’s For: Professionals in technology, innovation, and high-growth industries; businesses looking to expand or relocate to Tauranga.
  • Key Activities:
    • Facilitates connections between businesses, investors, and local government.
    • Hosts events and forums to discuss economic trends and opportunities.
    • Supports talent attraction and retention initiatives.
  • Membership Costs:
    • Membership is typically for businesses rather than individuals, with fees based on the size and type of business.
  • How to Join:
    • Contact Priority One directly through their website (https://www.priorityone.co.nz/) to inquire about membership and partnership opportunities.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Priority One is heavily involved in shaping Tauranga’s future as a hub for innovation and sustainable growth, making it ideal for professionals in forward-thinking industries.

3. LinkedIn Local Tauranga

  • Focus: Building professional relationships in a casual, face-to-face setting.
  • Who It’s For: Professionals across all industries who want to expand their networks and connect with like-minded individuals.
  • Key Activities:
    • Informal networking events where attendees can meet their LinkedIn connections in person.
    • Guest speakers and panel discussions on professional development topics.
  • Membership Costs:
    • No formal membership fees; events may have a small ticket cost (e.g., NZD 10–20) to cover venue and catering expenses.
  • How to Join:
    • Follow LinkedIn Local Tauranga on LinkedIn or Eventbrite to stay updated on upcoming events.
    • Register for events online and attend to start building connections.
  • Local Considerations:
    • These events are particularly welcoming to newcomers and are a great way to meet people in a relaxed environment.

4. Young Professionals Tauranga (YPT)

  • Focus: Networking, social events, and professional development for young professionals.
  • Who It’s For: Early-career professionals, recent graduates, and those new to Tauranga.
  • Key Activities:
    • Social meetups, such as after-work drinks and trivia nights.
    • Workshops and talks on career development and leadership.
    • Community involvement and volunteering opportunities.
  • Membership Costs:
    • Membership is free, but some events may have a small fee to cover costs.
  • How to Join:
    • Follow YPT on Facebook or Instagram to stay informed about events.
    • Simply show up to an event and introduce yourself to the group.
  • Local Considerations:
    • YPT is a great way to meet peers in a similar stage of life and career, especially if you’re new to the city.

5. ExportNZ Bay of Plenty

  • Focus: Supporting businesses involved in exporting goods and services.
  • Who It’s For: Exporters, manufacturers, and businesses looking to expand into international markets.
  • Key Activities:
    • Networking events and export-focused workshops.
    • Advocacy and support for exporters navigating trade regulations.
    • Access to resources and market insights.
  • Membership Costs:
    • Membership fees vary based on the size of your business and the level of support you require.
  • How to Join:
    • Visit their website (https://www.exportnz.org.nz/) and contact the Bay of Plenty branch for membership details.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Tauranga’s port is the largest in New Zealand, making this group particularly relevant for businesses in logistics and trade.

6. Women in Business Tauranga

  • Focus: Empowering and supporting women in business through networking and professional development.
  • Who It’s For: Female entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals.
  • Key Activities:
    • Networking breakfasts and luncheons.
    • Workshops and guest speaker events focused on leadership, work-life balance, and business growth.
  • Membership Costs:
    • Membership fees are typically affordable, with event costs ranging from NZD 20–50.
  • How to Join:
    • Follow their social media pages or website to learn about upcoming events and register online.
  • Local Considerations:
    • This group provides a supportive environment for women to share experiences and grow their careers.

7. Industry-Specific Groups

Tauranga also has several industry-specific networking groups, including:

  • Tauranga Tech: A community for technology professionals and startups. They host meetups, hackathons, and workshops. (Visit https://www.taurangatech.co.nz/ for details.)
  • Construction and Trades Networking: Groups like the Tauranga Master Builders Association and Certified Builders Association offer networking and training for professionals in construction and trades.
  • Horticulture and Agriculture Groups: Organizations like NZ Kiwifruit Growers Inc. (NZKGI) provide networking and advocacy for those in the horticulture industry.

8. Co-Working Spaces and Networking Hubs

Tauranga has several co-working spaces that double as networking hubs, offering opportunities to meet other professionals:

  • Basestation: A co-working space that hosts regular networking events and workshops for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
  • The Kollective (TK): A collaborative space for non-profits and social enterprises, with events and opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals.

Tips for Networking in Tauranga

  • Be Open and Friendly: Kiwis are known for their laid-back and approachable nature, so don’t hesitate to strike up conversations at events.
  • Leverage Social Media: Many groups in Tauranga use Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to promote events and connect with members.
  • Follow Up: After meeting someone at an event, follow up with a LinkedIn connection request or an email to maintain the relationship.
  • Be Patient: Building a professional network takes time, so attend events regularly and stay engaged.

By joining these groups and participating in their activities, you’ll not only expand your professional network but also gain valuable insights into Tauranga’s business landscape. Let me know if you’d like more details about any specific group!